Cosmetic Product With Indicia

ABSTRACT

A cosmetic product is disclosed. The cosmetic product comprises a cosmetic composition having LCh values and a container. The container comprises a label with indicia. The indicia comprise numerical values that correlate to the Lightness, Chroma, and hue measurements of the LCh values for the cosmetic composition. The indicia also comprise gradient scales that provide a visual representation of the Lightness, Chroma, and hue measurements of the LCh values for the cosmetic composition.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present specification generally relates to cosmetic products comprising a container with indicia and, in particular, to cosmetic products with improved indicia related to color information of the compositions provided in the container.

BACKGROUND

Consumers often report that shopping for a foundation, concealer, or other similar type of skin cover-up product in mass market locations such as grocery stores and drug stores is very challenging, since it is difficult to pick the right shade that best matches the particular skin color qualities of their skin. This leads many women to pay for higher priced “prestige” cosmetics, where they can get personal advice and assistance from a salesperson. Part of the difficulty that consumers face in choosing a shade in a mass market location is the fact that color of the product in the container can look very different than the thin layer or coating of product that is applied to the skin. Consequently, consumers often choose a shade that may initially appear closest to meeting their skin color needs, but actually is not the best suited to matching their skin. Of course this then leads to greater frustration and disappointment with both the purchasing decision and intended results for consumers to achieve their desired end-look. Color charts or other similar shade matching tools have been offered as one potential solution, but these are often still found to be unsatisfactory for accurate consumer perception, and can create additional unwanted complexity and clutter in the retail environment. Alternatively, sample shade tester products have been offered on display in retail environments for consumers to evaluate shades on their skin, but this too has several disadvantages, such as cost, complexity and mess to manage in store, as well as still not always being satisfactory for finding a proper matching shade. Therefore, a need still exists for a cosmetic product that can accurately communicate the shade information to consumer based on indicia from the container.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides a cosmetic product that gives a consumer more accurate information about the color values of the product. In one embodiment, the cosmetic product comprises:

-   -   a. a cosmetic composition intended for topical application to         human skin; said cosmetic composition having LCh values,     -   b. a container for said cosmetic composition, said container         comprising a label with indicia, said indicia comprising:         -   i. a Lightness numerical value that correlates to the             Lightness measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic             composition,         -   ii. a Chroma numerical value that correlates to the Chroma             measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition;         -   iii. a hue numerical value that correlates to the hue             measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition;         -   iv. a Lightness gradient scale with an indicator that             provides a visual representation of the Lightness value of             said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale;         -   v. a Chroma gradient scale with an indicator that provides a             visual representation of the Chroma value of said cosmetic             composition within said gradient scale; and         -   vi. a hue gradient scale with an indicator that provides a             visual representation of the hue value of said cosmetic             composition within said gradient scale.

In another embodiment, the cosmetic product has a Lightness numerical value that is identified as a skin color value on the indicia. In one embodiment, the cosmetic product has a Chroma numerical value that is identified as a skin intensity value on the indicia. In another embodiment, the cosmetic product has a Hue numerical value that is identified as an under tone value on the indicia.

In one embodiment, the cosmetic composition is in the form of a liquid emulsion, a solid emulsion, an anhydrous liquid, an anhydrous solid, a gel, a pressed powder, or a loose powder. In another embodiment, the cosmetic composition is a skin foundation, concealer, tinted moisturizer, or blemish treatment product. In one embodiment, the cosmetic composition is a skin foundation product.

In another embodiment, the numerical values for Lightness (LNV), Chroma (CNV) and hue (hNV) correlate to individual LCh values (L=Lightness, C=Chroma and h=hue) by the following formulae:

$\begin{matrix} {{\frac{L}{2} + 10} = {LNV}} & {{Formula}\mspace{14mu} 1} \\ {{\frac{C}{2} + 10} = {CNV}} & {{Formula}\mspace{14mu} 2} \\ {{\frac{h}{2} + 10} = {hNV}} & {{Formula}\mspace{14mu} 3} \end{matrix}$

In one embodiment, the gradient scales include a variety of colors. In another embodiment, the gradient scales use only black, white and shades of gray.

In yet another embodiment, each gradient scale is displayed as a continuum represented by a single graphical element, a plurality of discrete graphical elements arranged in an ordered series, or combinations thereof.

In an alternate embodiment, the cosmetic product comprises:

-   -   a. a cosmetic composition intended for topical application to         human skin; said cosmetic composition having LCh values,     -   b. a container for said cosmetic composition, said container         having indicia that is in direct contact with the surface of         said container, said indicia comprising:         -   i. a Lightness numerical value that correlates to the             Lightness measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic             composition,         -   ii. a Chroma numerical value that correlates to the Chroma             measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition;         -   iii. a hue numerical value that correlates to the hue             measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition;         -   iv. a Lightness gradient scale with an indicator that             provides a visual representation of the Lightness value of             said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale;         -   v. a Chroma gradient scale with an indicator that provides a             visual representation of the Chroma value of said cosmetic             composition within said gradient scale; and         -   vi. a hue gradient scale with an indicator that provides a             visual representation of the hue value of said cosmetic             composition within said gradient scale.

These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood in view of the following detailed description, in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 schematically depicts a gradient scale according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 2 schematically depicts a gradient scale according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 3 schematically depicts a gradient scale according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 4 schematically depicts a gradient scale according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 5 schematically depicts a gradient scale according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 6 schematically depicts a gradient scale according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 7 schematically depicts a gradient scale according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 8 schematically depicts a gradient scale and indicia according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to cosmetic products comprising containers with indicia providing improved color information. The cosmetic products will be described in more detail herein with specific reference to the appended drawings. The following description also includes reference to different colors and color values. In that regard, the following conventions may be followed. These terms may be defined with additional language in the remaining portions of the specification.

As used herein, “Character” means a symbol used in a writing system or any letter, numeral, punctuation mark or any symbol used to convey information.

“a* measurement” (a*) denotes the red/green color opponent value of a color in the CIE L*a*b* color space system.

“b* measurement” (b*) denotes the yellow/blue color opponent value of a color in the CIE L*a*b* color space system.

“Chroma measurement” (“Cab*”, “C*”, or “C”) refers to the vector distance from the center of the color space to the measured color; it is intended to designate saturation or intensity of a color and distinguishes color intensity from clarity (i.e. vividness vs. dullness). The lower the chroma of the color, i.e. the less its intensity, the closer the color is to being a grey color.

“CIE” refers to the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (International Commission on Illumination) which is the body responsible for international recommendations for photometry and colorimetry.

“Concealer” and “concealer composition,” as used herein, mean a cosmetic composition that is applied to skin to hide a perceived imperfection (e.g., discoloration such as hyper pigmentation (e.g., age spot, mole, freckle and the like), scar, tattoo, fine line, wrinkle, and vascularization). In some instances, concealers may be applied to relatively small areas of the face (e.g., under-eye area) but are not intended to be applied to the entire face. This feature distinguishes concealers from foundations, which are intended to be applied to the entire face of a person.

As used herein, “Container” means an item used to hold or include a product within its volume for storage, dispensing or transportation of that product.

As used herein, “Color cosmetic” means a composition for application to the hair, nails and/or skin, especially the face, which contains at least about 0.01% and up to about 90% of pigment (such as 0.5% to about 50%, such as from about 1% to about 30%), especially color pigments. Color cosmetics include, but are not limited to, foundations, concealers, primers, blush, blemish treatment products, mascara, eyeshadow, eyeliner, lipstick, nail polish and tinted moisturizers.

As used herein, “Digital printing” means printing process wherein a digital file is converted to a printed image onto some media without the need for conventional printing plates and/or cylinders. Digital printing has the advantages of allowing rapid turn-around times, on-demand printing and/or on-demand changes.

As used herein, the phrase “Gradient scale” refers to a system of measure or comparison for visually displaying the relative value (i.e., level, intensity, or magnitude) of a property (e.g., Lightness, Chroma, or hue) observed in passing from one point or position to another along a spectrum of change (i.e., increase or decrease) to that value. A gradient scale may be comprised of discrete, stepwise intervals or subunit of value, or a continuous progression of value to represent the entirety of the available range.

“Hue measurement” (“hab” or “h”) refers to the basic colors, such as red, yellow or blue. Hue is defined in a plane with red, yellow, green, and blue being 90 degrees apart from one another. A color's hue is an angle in that plane.

As used herein, “Indicia” means readable characters, graphical elements, images, mirror-image readable characters and combinations thereof.

As used herein, “ink” means a liquid or a paste that carries color carrying components (pigments, dyes, etc.) that is used to color a surface to produce and image, text, or design. Typical inks used in industry are UV (ultra-violet) cured, EB (electron beam) cured, radiation cured, solvent and aqueous. Often inks are in a liquid form and contain at least one pigment or dye. Chemically, many inks are suspensions of organic or inorganic pigments, which are embedded in a polymer resin for stabilization. The carriers of these systems are solvents. Solvents can be water, hydrocarbons or mixtures thereof (e.g. alcohol, esters, acetates, ethers), drying is done thermally or via infrared (IR).

“Keratinous tissue,” as used herein, refers to keratin-containing layers disposed as the outermost protective covering of mammals which includes, but is not limited to, skin, hair, and nails.

As used herein, “Label” refers to a slip of paper, cloth, plastic, metal, or other similar thin substrate sheet or film material, marked or inscribed, for attachment to an object to communicate information about the identity, description, or use of the object (e.g., indicate its nature, manufacturer, ingredients, etc.).

“Lightness measurement” (“L*” or “L”) refers to the perception of light to dark of the color. Black has low lightness (theoretically approaching 0) and white has high lightness.

As used herein, “Lab values” refers to a color measurement convention wherein the “L” value, “a” (or a*) value, and “b” (or b*) value may be plotted in a three dimensional space using rectangular (or Cartesian) components, where L is the center axis, a* denotes a position along the red/green color opponent attribute axis, and b* denotes a position along the yellow/blue color opponent attribute axis, as defined in the CIE L*a*b* color space system.

As used herein, “LCh values” refers to a color measurement convention wherein the L value, C value, and h value may be plotted in a three dimensional space using polar (or cylindrical) components, where L is the center axis, h is an angle, and C is the distance away from the L axis along the h angle, as defined in the CIE L*C*h color space system.

As used herein, “Skin foundation” means a liquid, solid, or semi-solid cosmetic composition for imparting color to the skin, especially the face. It may be in the form of, for example, a lotion, cream, stick, or paste.

With respect to the colored cosmetic compositions intended for application to human skin, the color measurements and color values used for displaying on cosmetic products of the present invention may be obtained by any available means known to those skilled in the art. Nonlimiting examples of such means include colorimeters and spectrophotometers that are designed to measure the color of objects, typically by performing “point” or “spot” measurements on small (e.g., 2-20 mm²) areas of the object. Colorimeters and spectrophotometers are instruments commonly used in many color-based industries and products, such as color cosmetics, paints/coatings, and printing/graphic arts, to accurately measure and match the color of objects and products. Color measurement instruments record an object's reflectance or spectral curve (i.e., the numeric values of reflected light wavelengths as points across the visible spectrum). Known mathematics are then applied to map the color onto a color space by multiplying the reflectance curve data by a CIE standard illuminant, and further multiplied by a CIE standard observer.

Regarding the object of interest for color measurement, in this particular case, the object of interest would be cosmetic compositions of the present invention. Color measurements may be performed on the basis of a uniform wet film (e.g., liquid form of liquid foundation) or uniform dry film (e.g., dried form of liquid foundation) of cosmetic. Uniform wet films for liquid cosmetics may be obtained by means well-known in the art (such as those obtained from a method like ASTM D823 using BYK Drawdown Bar film applicators), and, optionally, then allowed to dry under controlled conditions to obtain uniform dry films. Although many suitable wet film thicknesses may be used, preferably a minimum wet film thickness of 1.0 mils (25.4 microns) may be used. Preferably, color measurements are performed on the basis of a uniform dry film of cosmetic to more closely represent what a consumer would experience after application of the cosmetic composition on their skin.

Regarding the CIE standard illuminant, each light source has a power distribution that affects how we see color, so the illuminant is a graphical representation of the light source under which an object is viewed. CIE standard illuminants are known spectral data established by the CIE for different types of light sources, and these standard illuminants are used in place of actual measurements of the light source. Examples of different illuminants include “A” (incandescent), “D” (daylight), and “F2” (fluorescent). More specifically, CIE positions “D65” as the standard daylight illuminant. D65 is intended to represent average daylight and has a correlated color temperature of approximately 6500 K. CIE recommends that D65 should be used in all colorimetric calculations requiring representative daylight, unless there are specific reasons for using a different illuminant. Thus for purposes of this invention, although numerical color values obtained using standard illuminants other than D65 may be used, the D65 standard illuminant is the preferred basis for deriving color values that would more closely represent a consumer's perceived color of a cosmetic composition viewed under natural daylight conditions.

Regarding the CIE standard observer, the CIE commissioned work in 1931 and 1964 to derive the concept of a standard observer, which is based on the average human response to wavelengths of light. In short, the standard observer represents how an average person sees color across the visible spectrum. The 1931 data was defined for the “2 degree” visual field (distance viewing), and the 1964 data was defined for the annular “10 degree” visual field (approximately arm's length viewing). Thus for purposes of this invention, although numerical color values obtained using either the 2 degree or 10 degree standard observer basis may be used, the 10 degree standard observer is the preferred basis for deriving color values that would more closely represent perceived color of a cosmetic composition when viewed by a consumer.

A color space or color model is merely a way of describing color. There are several CIE color spaces, more correctly known as models, which serve different purposes. A color space can be described as a means for expressing the color of an object using some kind of notation, such as numbers. CIE has defined color spaces, including CIE XYZ, CIE L*a*b* (herein also simply referred to as CIELAB), and CIE L*C*h (herein also simply referred to as CIELCh), for communicating and expressing object color. These systems allow users to evaluate color attributes, identify inconsistencies, and accurately express their findings to others in numerical terms. CIELAB describes all the colors visible to the human eye and was created to serve as a device-independent model to be used as a reference. The three coordinates of CIELAB represent the lightness of the color (L*), its position between red and green (a*, where negative values indicate green direction while positive values indicate red direction), and its position between yellow and blue (b*, where negative values indicate blue direction and positive values indicate yellow direction). Since the L*a*b* model is a three-dimensional model, it can be represented properly only in a three-dimensional space. The CIELCh color space, similar to CIELAB, is preferred by some industry professionals because its system correlates well with how the human eye perceives color. It has the same diagram as the L*a*b* color space, but uses cylindrical (or polar) coordinates instead of rectangular (or Cartesian) coordinates. In this color space, L* indicates lightness (the same as in the CIELAB system), C* represents chroma, and h is the hue angle. Color measurement instruments make quantifying these color attributes easy, and mathematical conversion of color space values between CIELAB and CIELCh is well-known.

In one embodiment, the present invention relates to an improved method for providing color information of a cosmetic product to a consumer. Color cosmetic products use pigments to create specific shades. The shades of the products are an important aspect of these cosmetic products, since consumers use these shades to achieve a desired effect. Consumers rely, in part, on color information from the product packaging to make their purchasing decisions. The present invention provides a method for communicating color information in a more accurate and detailed form than was previously available.

In one embodiment, color information is provided on a container for a cosmetic composition. The information can be printed on a label affixed to the container, or printed by applying ink directly on the container. In one embodiment, the color information is digitally printed directly on the container.

Color information is printed using indicia. Indicia include readable characters, graphical elements, images, mirror-image readable characters and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the indicia comprises three numerical values and three gradient scales:

i. a Lightness numerical value that correlates to the Lightness measurement of the LCh values for the cosmetic composition,

ii. a Chroma numerical value that correlates to the Chroma measurement of the LCh values for the cosmetic composition;

iii. a hue numerical value that correlates to the hue measurement of the LCh values for the cosmetic composition;

iv. a Lightness gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the Lightness value of the cosmetic composition within the gradient scale;

v. a Chroma gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the Chroma value of the cosmetic composition within the gradient scale; and

vi. a hue gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the hue value of the cosmetic composition within the gradient scale.

In one embodiment, the numerical values provide an easy method for consumers to understand the LCh values of the cosmetic composition. When the numerical values are combined with a visual gradient scale having an indicator that correlates to the corresponding numerical value, the consumer's understanding of the color information is greatly increased. The combination of a numerical value and a visual indicator has been found to improve and ease comprehension of the information by a consumer.

Gradient scales may be presented in a variety of formats. FIGS. 1-8 provide examples of some gradient scale formats that are useful for the present invention. Some gradient scales may be presented as a continuum represented by a single graphical element with varying colors and/or shades (see FIGS. 1, 2, 6 and 7) while other gradient scales may be a plurality of discrete graphical elements arranged in an ordered series demonstrating a color and/or shade variation (see FIGS. 3, 4, 5 and 8). In one embodiment, the gradient scales include a variety of colors. In another embodiment, the gradient scales use only black, white and shades of gray.

In another embodiment, the cosmetic product has a Lightness numerical value that is identified as a skin color value on the indicia. In one embodiment, the cosmetic product has a Chroma numerical value that is identified as a skin intensity value on the indicia. In another embodiment, the cosmetic product has a Hue numerical value that is identified as an under tone value on the indicia.

In one embodiment, the cosmetic composition is in the form of a liquid emulsion, a solid emulsion, an anhydrous liquid, an anhydrous solid, a gel, a pressed powder, or a loose powder. In another embodiment, the cosmetic composition is a skin foundation, concealer, tinted moisturizer, or blemish treatment product. In one embodiment, the cosmetic composition is a skin foundation product.

In another embodiment, the numerical values for Lightness (LNV), Chroma (CNV) and hue (hNV) correlate to individual LCh values (L=Lightness, C=Chroma and h=hue) by the following formulae:

$\begin{matrix} {{\frac{L}{2} + 10} = {LNV}} & {{Formula}\mspace{14mu} 1} \\ {{\frac{C}{2} + 10} = {CNV}} & {{Formula}\mspace{14mu} 2} \\ {{\frac{h}{2} + 10} = {hNV}} & {{Formula}\mspace{14mu} 3} \end{matrix}$

The numerical values for Lightness (LNV), Chroma (CNV) and hue (hNV) may be presented as whole numbers, mixed numbers, decimal numbers, or combinations thereof in order to provide sufficient clarity to consumers in communicating color differences between products in a simple yet distinct manner. Similarly, in an alternative embodiment, it may further be advantageous to use numerical values that have either been scaled-up in value (e.g., multiplied by a factor of 2 or 10) or scaled-down in value (e.g., divided by a factor of 2 or 10) in order to provide more apparent distinction or separation between products of different color.

In an alternate embodiment, the cosmetic product comprises:

-   -   a. a cosmetic composition intended for topical application to         human skin; said cosmetic composition having LCh values,     -   b. a container for said cosmetic composition, said container         having indicia that is in direct contact with the surface of         said container, said indicia comprising:         -   i. a Lightness numerical value that correlates to the             Lightness measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic             composition,         -   ii. a Chroma numerical value that correlates to the Chroma             measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition;         -   iii. a hue numerical value that correlates to the hue             measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition;         -   iv. a Lightness gradient scale with an indicator that             provides a visual representation of the Lightness value of             said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale;         -   v. a Chroma gradient scale with an indicator that provides a             visual representation of the Chroma value of said cosmetic             composition within said gradient scale; and         -   vi. a hue gradient scale with an indicator that provides a             visual representation of the hue value of said cosmetic             composition within said gradient scale.

The container forms may be constructed in a variety of forms according to the present disclosure, including, for example and without limitation, bottles, tubes, tottles, cans, cartons, canisters, cartridges, flasks, vials, jug, tubs, tanks, jars, boxes, clamshell packaging, trays, blister packaging, and the like.

Optional Ingredients for the Cosmetic Product

The cosmetic product may optionally include a variety of additional ingredients, as desired. Nonlimiting examples of various optional ingredients that may be included herein, such as thickeners, particles, elastomers, actives, sunscreen agents, preservatives, skin conditioning agents, solidifying agents, preservatives and fragrances, are discussed in more detail below.

Thickeners

The cosmetic product may optionally be thickened or structured with colloidal particles such as disteardimonium hectorite, kaolin, silica, and magnesium carbonate; viscous hydrocarbons; and combinations thereof. Disteardimonium hectorite is the preferred thickener to build structure/viscosity. This may help to provide proper spreading/deposition across a target skin surface and adequate stability/suspension of colorant particles in the dispersion over time. It may be desirable to select disteardimonium hectorite particles that have a diameter that is less than the thickness of the concealer dried-down film, (e.g., less than 40 microns). In certain embodiments, the concealer composition may include disteardimonium hectorite in an amount of from 1% to 25%, 2% to 20%, or even 3% to 15%.

In certain embodiments, the cosmetic product may be thickened with one or more wax(es) such as, for example, carnauba wax, candellila wax, beeswax, and polyethylene wax. In certain embodiments, the cosmetic product may include less than 3.0%, less than 1.0%, or even less than 0.1% of wax and/or wax like components. In certain embodiments, the cosmetic product may be free of wax.

Particles

The cosmetic product may optionally include one or more particles for modifying the application and appearance of the applied product. For example, particles may be included in the cosmetic composition to help minimize the undesirable tacky sensation of sunscreen actives and film-forming tackifiers on a user's hands as well as helping to “mattify” the film and extend the wear of the product. In certain embodiments, at least some of the particles may be in the form of one or more of the pigments described above. The particles may help provide even coverage during application of the cosmetic product.

Particles may be added to extend the wear of the cosmetic product by absorbing components of sebum and sweat, thereby limiting the mobility of the cosmetic product film across skin. The amount of particles present is important because too few particles may result in a cosmetic composition that exhibits an undesirable shine when applied to the skin. On the other hand, too many particles may cause the cosmetic product to exhibit an undesirable chalky appearance when applied to the skin. In some instances, the particles may be selected such that the cosmetic product has a suitable matte look. A matte look may be thought of as being the opposite of a shiny look, which is generally undesirable for certain cosmetic compositions such as foundations and concealers. A matte look may be generated when the surface topography of the foundation film is rough, thus increasing the amount of diffuse back-scatter of light from the surface of the foundation film. In some instances, the properties of the cosmetic product (e.g., rough surface topography) may be manipulated by using particles such as Surface Topography Modifiers, Locking Oil Absorbers and/or Releasing Oil Absorbers. Nonlimiting examples of such particles and their use in cosmetic composition is disclosed in copending U.S. Ser. No. 13/274,852.

Elastomer

Elastomers may be optionally added to modify the skin feel of the cosmetic product as well as its optical properties. In certain embodiments, the elastomer may include a cross-linked organopolysiloxane elastomer. The elastomer may be present at an amount of from 0.01% to 15%, from 1% to 12.5%, or even from 2% to 10%. Nonlimiting examples of elastomers include dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymers such as DC 9040, DC 9045 and DC 9041 available from the Dow Corning Corporation; SFE 839 available from General Electric; KSG-15, KSG-16 and KSG-18 from Shin Etsu Chemical Company Ltd; and Gransil™ line of materials from Grant Industries, and lauryl dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymers such as KSG-31, KSG-32, KSG-41, KSG-42, KSG-43, and KSG-44 available from Shin Etsu Chemical Company Ltd. Other exemplary elastomers include polyoxyalkylene-modified elastomers formed from divinyl compounds, particularly siloxane polymers with at least two free vinyl groups, reacting with Si—H linkages on a polysiloxane backbone, such as KSG-21, KSG-210 and KSG-320 available from the Shin-Etsu Chemical Company Ltd. Further examples of elastomers include cross-linked organopolysiloxane elastomers comprising polyglyceryl units such as KSG 710 and KSG-800 available from the Shin-Etsu Chemical Company Ltd.

Actives

The cosmetic product may optionally include a safe and effective amount of a biological, chemical, nutraceutical, or pharmaceutical active. Biological actives include prostaglandins, antimicrobials, antibacterials, biocides, preservatives, proteins, amino acids, peptides, hormones, growth factors, enzymes (e.g., glutathione sulphydryl oxidase, transglutaminase), therapeutics, oligonucleotides, genetic materials (e.g., DNA, RNA), and combinations thereof. Chemical actives include surfactants, sensates, hair conditioners, hair dyes, hair growth agents, hair removers, hair growth inhibitors, hair styling gels, and combinations thereof. Nutraceutical actives include proteins, preservatives, vitamins, food-additive materials, and combinations thereof. Pharmaceutical actives include antibiotics and other drugs. Particular suitable examples of actives are whitening actives (e.g., SEPIWHITE available from Seppic) and anti-acne actives such as benzoyl peroxide.

Sunscreen

The cosmetic product may optionally include a sunscreen agent. A sunscreen agent is an ingredient or composition that absorbs or reflects at least some of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation and is typically incorporated into a topical product for skin. Sunscreen agents can be organic or inorganic. The sunscreen agent may be present at an amount of from 0.1% to 16%, from 0.2% to 12%, or even from 0.5% to 8%. Nonlimiting examples of inorganic sunscreen agents include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide particles. Such metal oxide particles may have an average primary particle size equal to or less than 100 nm. These particles may be selected from sunscreen-grade titanium dioxide, sunscreen grade zinc oxide and mixtures thereof. These particles may be surface-treated and/or coated, using conventional treatments. Examples of commercially available sunscreen metal oxide particles include M262 from Kemira Corp., TTO S-3 and TTO S-4 from Ishihara Corp. Nonlimiting examples of organic sunscreen agents include cinnamate derivatives (e.g., ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate and ethyl methoxycinnamate); alkyl β,β-diphenylacrylate derivatives (e.g., ethyl 2-cyano-3,3-diphenylacrylate) and 2-ethylhexyl 2-cyano-3,3-diphenylacrylate); α-cyano β,β-diphenylacrylate derivatives; anthranilate derivatives (e.g., methyl anthranilate); benzophenone derivatives (e.g., methyl benzophenone and trimethylbenzophenone); camphor derivatives (e.g., benzylidene camphor sulfonic acid); dibenzoylmethane derivatives (e.g., butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, ethylhexyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, and isopropyl dibenzoylmethane); p-aminobenzoic derivatives (e.g., p-aminobenzoic acid butyl ester and p-aminobenzoic acid); salicylic derivatives, triazine derivatives (tris-biphenyl triazine); and mixtures thereof. A suitable example of a hydrophilic organic sunscreen agent is 2-phenylbenzimidaole-5-sulfonic acid, also known as PBSA.

Skin Conditioning Agent

The cosmetic product may optionally include a skin conditioning agent (e.g., exfoliants and/or emollients) present at an amount of from 1% to 30%, from 2% to 20%, or even from 3% to 10% by weight based on the weight of the cosmetic composition. 1 to 15% or even 2 to 10%. Exemplary exfoliants include C2-C30 alpha-hydroxycarboxylic acids, beta-hydroxycarboxylic acids and salts of these acids. Nonlimiting examples of C2-C30 alpha-hydroxycarboxylic acids include alpha-hydroxyethanoic acid, alpha-hydroxypropanoic acid, alpha-hydroxyhexanoic acid, alpha-hydroxyoctanoic acid, alpha-hydroxydecanoic acid, alpha-hydroxydodecanoic acid, alpha-hydroxytetradecanoic acid, alpha-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid, alpha-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, alpha-hydroxyeicosanoic acid, alpha-hydroxydocosanoic acid, alpha-hydroxyhexacosanoic acid, and alpha-hydroxyoctacosanoic acid. An example of a beta-hydroxycarboxylic acid exfoliant is salicylic acid.

When the conditioning agent is an emollient, it may be selected from hydrocarbons, fatty acids, fatty alcohols and esters. Isononyl isononanoate is a particularly suitable emollient conditioning agent. Other hydrocarbons that may be employed include mineral oil, polyolefins such as polydecene, and paraffins such as isohexadecane (e.g. Permethyl® 99 and Permethyl® 101). The cosmetic product may optionally be substantially free of semi-solid hydrocarbons such as petrolatum, lanolin and lanolin derivatives, sterols (e.g., ethoxylated soya sterols), high molecular weight polybutenes and coco butter. “Substantially free” means that the concentration of the semi-solid hydrocarbons are less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 2%, or even 0. Without being limited by theory, such semi-solid hydrocarbons may mask the sensory benefits of a siloxane elastomer, such as the non-greasy, light feel.

Fatty acid- and alcohol-type emollients may have from 10 to 30 carbon atoms. Nonlimiting examples of these include pelargonic, lauric, myristic, palmitic, stearic, isostearic, hydroxystearic, oleic, linoleic, ricinoleic, arachidic, behenic and erucic acids and alcohols.

Oily ester emollients may be those selected from one or more of the following classes: 1) Triglyceride esters such as vegetable and animal fats and oils (e.g., castor oil, cocoa butter, safflower oil, cottonseed oil, corn oil, olive oil, cod liver oil, almond oil, avocado oil, palm oil, sesame oil, squalene, Kikui oil and soybean oil); 2) Acetoglyceride esters such as acetylated monoglycerides; 3) Ethoxylated glycerides such as ethoxylated glyceryl monostearate; 4) Alkyl esters of fatty acids having 10 to 20 carbon atoms (e.g., hexyl laurate, isohexyl laurate, isohexyl palmitate, isopropyl palmitate, decyl oleate, isodecyl oleate, hexadecyl stearate, decyl stearate, isopropyl isostearate, diisopropyl adipate, diisohexyl adipate, dihexyldecyl adipate, diisopropyl sebacate, lauryl lactate, myristyl lactate, and cetyl lactate); 5) Alkenyl esters of fatty acids having 10 to 20 carbon atoms (e.g, oleyl myristate, oleyl stearate, and oleyl oleate); 6) Ether-esters such as fatty acid esters of ethoxylated fatty alcohols; 7) Polyhydric alcohol esters (e.g., ethylene glycol mono and di-fatty acid esters, diethylene glycol mono- and di-fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycol (200-6000) mono- and di-fatty acid esters, propylene glycol mono- and di-fatty acid esters, polypropylene glycol 2000 monooleate, polypropylene glycol 2000 monostearate, ethoxylated propylene glycol monostearate, glyceryl mono- and di-fatty acid esters, polyglycerol polyfatty esters, ethoxylated glyceryl monostearate, 1,2-butylene glycol monostearate, 1,2-butylene glycol distearate, polyoxyethylene polyol fatty acid ester, sorbitan fatty acid esters, and polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters); 8) Wax esters such as beeswax, spermaceti, myristyl myristate, stearyl stearate; 9) C1-C30 mono- and poly-esters of sugars and related materials in liquid or solid form. Other materials include cottonseed oil or soybean oil fatty acid esters of sucrose. The ester materials are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,831,854, U.S. Pat. No. 4,005,196, to Jandacek, issued Jan. 25, 1977; U.S. Pat. No. 4,005,195, to Jandacek, issued Jan. 25, 1977, U.S. Pat. No. 5,306,516, to Letton et al., issued Apr. 26, 1994; U.S. Pat. No. 5,306,515, to Letton et al., issued Apr. 26, 1994; U.S. Pat. No. 5,305,514, to Letton et al., issued Apr. 26, 1994; U.S. Pat. No. 4,797,300, to Jandacek et al., issued Jan. 10, 1989; U.S. Pat. No. 3,963,699, to Rizzi et al, issued Jun. 15, 1976; U.S. Pat. No. 4,518,772, to Volpenhein, issued May 21, 1985; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,517,360, to Volpenhein, issued May 21, 1985.

Solidifying Agent

The cosmetic product may optionally contain one or more materials, herein singly or collectively referred to as a “solidifying agent”, that are effective to solidify the particular liquid base materials to be used in a cosmetic composition. (As used herein, the term “solidify” refers to the physical and/or chemical alteration of the liquid base material so as to form a solid or semi-solid at ambient conditions, i.e., to form a final composition which has a stable physical structure and is deposited on the skin during normal use conditions.) As is appreciated by those skilled in the art, the selection of the particular solidifying agent for use in the cosmetic compositions will depend upon the particular type of composition desired, i.e., gel or wax-based, the desired rheology, the liquid base material used and the other materials to be used in the composition. The solidifying agent is preferably present at a concentration of from about 0 to about 90%, more preferably from about 1 to about 50%, even more preferably from about 5% to about 40%, most preferably from about 1% to about 15%.

Suitable solidifying agents include waxy materials such as candelilla, carnauba waxes, beeswax, spermaceti, carnauba, baysberry, montan, ozokerite, ceresin, paraffin, synthetic waxes such as Fisher-Tropsch waxes, silicone waxes (e.g., DC 2503 from Dow Corning), microcrystalline waxes and the like; soaps, such as the sodium and potassium salts of higher fatty acids, i.e., acids having from 12 to 22 carbon atoms; amides of higher fatty acids; higher fatty acid amides of alkylolamines; dibenzaldehyde-monosorbitol acetals; alkali metal and alkaline earth metal salts of the acetates, propionates and lactates; and mixtures thereof. Also useful are polymeric materials such as, locust bean gum, sodium alginate, sodium caseinate, egg albumin, gelatin agar, carrageenin gum, sodium alginate, xanthan gum, quince seed extract, tragacanth gum, starch, chemically modified starches, semi-synthetic polymeric materials such as cellulose ethers (e.g. hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxy propylmethyl cellulose), polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylalcohol, guar gum, hydroxypropyl guar gum, cationic celluloses, cationic guars and the like and synthetic polymeric materials such as carboxyvinyl polymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol polyacrylic acid polymers, polymethacrylic acid polymers, polyvinyl acetate polymers, polyvinyl chloride polymers, polyvinylidene chloride polymers and the like. Inorganic thickeners may also be used such as aluminium silicates, bentonites, or a mixture of polyethylene glycol and polyethylene glycol stearate or distearate. Naturally occurring polymers or biopolymers and their use are further described in European Application No. 522624, to Dunphy et al.

Hydrophobically modified celluloses are also suitable for use herein. These celluloses are described in detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,228,277 and 5,104,646. Additional examples of suitable solidifying agents disclosed in the following references: U.S. Pat. No. 4,151,272, Geary, et al., issued Apr. 24, 1979; U.S. Pat. No. 4,229,432, Geria, issued Oct. 21, 1980; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,280,994, Turney, issued Jul. 28, 1981; U.S. Pat. No. 4,126,679, Davy, et al., issued Nov. 21, 1978; European Patent Specification No. 117,070, May, published Aug. 29, 1984; U.S. Pat. No. 2,900,306, Slater, issued Aug. 18, 1959; U.S. Pat. No. 3,255,082, Barton, issued Jun. 7, 1966; U.S. Pat. No. 4,137,306, Rubino, et al., issued Jan. 30, 1979; U.S. Pat. No. 4,154,816, Roehl, et al., issued May 15, 1979; U.S. Pat. No. 4,226,889, Yuhas, issued Oct. 7, 1980; U.S. Pat. No. 4,346,079, Roehl, issued Aug. 24, 1982; U.S. Pat. No. 4,383,988, Teng, et al., issued May 17, 1983; European Patent Specification No. 107,330, Luebbe, et al., published May 2, 1984; European Patent Specification No. 24,365 Sampson, et al., published Mar. 4, 1981; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 630,790, DiPietro, filed Jul. 13, 1984.

Preservatives

Suitable traditional preservatives for cosmetic products of this invention are alkyl esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid. Other preservatives which have more recently come into use include hydantoin derivatives such as 1,3-bis(hydroxymethyl)-5,5-dimthylhydantoin, propionate salts, and a variety of quaternary ammonium compounds such as benzalkonium chloride, quaternium 15 (Dowicil 200), benzethonium chloride, and methylbenzethonium chloride. Particularly preferred preservatives are disodium EDTA, phenoxyethanol, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, sodium benzoate, imidazolidinyl urea (commercially available as Germall 1157), sodium dehydroacetate, capryl hydroxamic acid, caprylyl glycol, methyl propanediol, benzyl alcohol and mixtures of the prior disclosed (such as the Spectrastat series from Inolex). The preservatives should be selected having regard for the use of the composition and possible incompatibilities between the preservatives and other ingredients in the emulsion. Preservatives preferably are employed in amounts ranging from about 0% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.01% to about 2.5%, and most preferably from about 0.01% to about 1%, by weight of the composition.

Fragrance

The cosmetic product may include a fragrance. Suitable fragrance technologies include cyclodextrins (beta, gamma, alpha and derivatives), plus those whereby the fragrance is entrapped within solid entrapping particles as described in U.S. Publication No. 2009/0098170 filed by D'Acchioli, et al on Oct. 15, 2008.

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or patent publication, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any document disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such embodiment. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

It is noted that the terms “substantially” and “about” may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue. The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm”.

While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter 

1. A cosmetic product comprising: a. a cosmetic composition intended for topical application to human skin; said cosmetic composition having LCh values, b. a container for said cosmetic composition, said container comprising a label with indicia, said indicia comprising: i. a Lightness numerical value that correlates to the Lightness measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition, ii. a Chroma numerical value that correlates to the Chroma measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition; iii. a hue numerical value that correlates to the hue measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition; iv. a Lightness gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the Lightness value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale; v. a Chroma gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the Chroma value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale; and vi. a hue gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the hue value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale.
 2. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein said Lightness numerical value is identified as a skin color value on the indicia.
 3. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein said Chroma numerical value is identified as a skin intensity value on the indicia.
 4. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein said Hue numerical value is identified as an under tone value on the indicia.
 5. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein the cosmetic composition is in the form of a liquid emulsion, a solid emulsion, an anhydrous liquid, an anhydrous solid, a gel, a pressed powder, or a loose powder.
 6. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein the cosmetic composition is a skin foundation, concealer, tinted moisturizer, or blemish treatment product.
 7. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein the cosmetic composition is a skin foundation product.
 8. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein the Lightness numerical value (LNV) correlates to the Lightness measurement (L) by the following formula:
 9. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein the gradient scales include a variety of colors.
 10. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein the gradient scales use only black, white and shades of gray.
 11. The cosmetic product of claim 1, wherein each gradient scale is displayed as a continuum represented by a single graphical element, a plurality of discrete graphical elements arranged in an ordered series, or combinations thereof.
 12. A cosmetic product comprising: a. a cosmetic composition intended for topical application to human skin; said cosmetic composition having LCh values, b. a container for said cosmetic composition, said container having indicia that is in direct contact with the surface of said container, said indicia comprising: i. a Lightness numerical value that correlates to the Lightness measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition, ii. a Chroma numerical value that correlates to the Chroma measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition; iii. a hue numerical value that correlates to the hue measurement of the LCh values for said cosmetic composition; iv. a Lightness gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the Lightness value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale; v. a Chroma gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the Chroma value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale; and vi. a hue gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the hue value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale.
 13. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein said Lightness numerical value is identified as a skin color value on the indicia.
 14. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein said Chroma numerical value is identified as a skin intensity value on the indicia.
 15. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein said Hue numerical value is identified as an under tone value on the indicia.
 16. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein the cosmetic composition is in the form of a liquid emulsion, a solid emulsion, an anhydrous liquid, an anhydrous solid, a gel, a pressed powder, or a loose powder.
 17. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein the cosmetic composition is a skin foundation, concealer, tinted moisturizer, or blemish treatment product.
 18. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein the cosmetic composition is a skin foundation product.
 19. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein the gradient scales include a variety of colors.
 20. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein the gradient scales use only black, white and shades of gray.
 21. The cosmetic product of claim 12, wherein each gradient scale is displayed as a continuum represented by a single graphical element, a plurality of discrete graphical elements arranged in an ordered series, or combinations thereof.
 22. A cosmetic product comprising: a. a cosmetic composition intended for topical application to human skin; said cosmetic composition having L*a*b* values, b. a container for said cosmetic composition, said container comprising a label with indicia, said indicia comprising: i. a Lightness numerical value that correlates to the Lightness measurement of the L*a*b* values for said cosmetic composition, ii. a first color opponent value that correlates to the a* value measurement of the L*a*b* values for said cosmetic composition; iii. a second color opponent value that correlates to the b* value measurement of the L*a*b* values for said cosmetic composition; iv. a Lightness gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the Lightness value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale; v. a first color opponent value gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the a* value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale; and vi. a second color opponent value gradient scale with an indicator that provides a visual representation of the b* value of said cosmetic composition within said gradient scale. 